Janome Kikichoko (snake's-eye sake tasting cup)

The janome kikichoko is a special vessel used when tasting sake. The cup is made mainly of large white porcelain, and a distinctive blue janome (snake's-eye) pattern is painted on its bottom. This is a design intended for observing slight cloudiness in the sake: the janome pattern helps with the reflection of light, making it possible to check the color and clarity of the sake more clearly. In this way, the janome kikichoko plays an important role in sake evaluation and tasting (kikizake), bringing out the characteristics of the sake to the fullest.